Expert: Paul Wagner - 7/9/2005

Question
Is it possible to see the moons of Jupiter without a telescope?

Answer
Dear Jerry:

This is a great question.  The four brightest moons of Jupiter are just barely bright enough, at magnitude 5.5-6, to be seen with the naked eye in really dark skies.  But they are also very close to Jupiter, and that planet usually overpowers them.  I have never seen the moons with my naked eye.  I think that under perfect conditions, when one of the moons is at its greatest distance from Jupiter, that it just might be possible...but I have never done it.

They are quite easily seen in even minimal binoculars.

Paul Wagner